Eureka enables international R&D cooperation between companies

Eureka cluster projects are long-term, large-scale and internationally significant European industrial initiatives that receive funding through calls. The aim of the clusters is to develop technologies that are important for Europe's competitiveness in the fields of ICT, electronics, software, energy and biotechnology. 

The clusters organise project calls, which are announced on their websites. In addition, joint thematic calls for all clusters will be organised. 

There are five Eureka clusters: 

• CELTIC-NEXT 
• ITEA 4
• SMART
• XECS
• EUROGIA 2030
  
  

How does the process work? 

1. The process starts with a project proposal made in the cluster's project search. 
2. Proposals and project plans are evaluated internationally, and projects accepted into the cluster receive Eureka approval.  
3. After the Eureka approval, the participants can apply for public funding for their shares from national sources, in Finland from Business Finland.

Business Finland participates in the activities of four clusters and the evaluation of proposals together with public innovation financiers from other European countries. Business Finland has appointed contact persons for these clusters: 
 
CELTIC-NEXT – Telecommunications 
Contact person: Hannu Nurmi 
 
ITEA 4 – Software Intensive Systems
Contact person: Hannu Nurmi 
 
SMART – advanced manufacturing 
Contact person: Pauliina Erätuuli 
 
XECS – Micro- and Nanoelectronics Value Chains 
Contact persons: Toni Mattila, Veli-Pekka Ihanus 

Does the Eureka cluster sound like a suitable opportunity for international cooperation?

Contact Business Finland's contact person!

Eureka individual projects support business-driven R&D cooperation that is close to the market. Calls with countries outside Europe are called GlobalStars and are implemented as individual Eureka projects. The topic of individual projects is free and the call is open continuously – only GlobalStars calls (partner country outside Europe) follow the deadlines. The Eureka label is granted four times a year. 

How does the process work? 

1. The project proposal leader, typically a company, assembles an international project team. Participants must be from at least two Eureka countries.  
2. The leader is responsible for preparing the project description and submitting it to the national Eureka office. In Finland, Eureka applications are processed by Business Finland's Eureka office, which also provides guidance on how to submit national funding applications. 
3. Participants apply for public financial support in their own countries through national procedures. The application periods for these differ and the Finnish Eureka Office can help you find out. In Finland, the application period is continuous, and the funding application is submitted to Business Finland using normal application procedures.  
4. In addition to a joint Eureka project description and cooperation agreement, Eureka approval in Finland requires a positive funding decision from Business Finland. 

In market-driven individual projects, Business Finland mainly finances companies. Research organisations can be involved in them as research subcontractors. The financing principles for companies are the same as for domestic projects, depending on the size of the company and the situation.  

If there are several Finnish parties, the funding principles of joint projects are followed. If the project carries out international joint R&D work with a joint project plan, the funding decision may comply with the terms and conditions of the project. 

Ready for shared aha moments in the Eureka project?

Contact Business Finland's Eureka office!